Easy and accurate estimation of grapevine leaf area with simple mathematical models

Abstract

Empirical models for non-destructive estimation of primary and lateral leaf area are presented for cv. Aragonez, syn. Tempranillo. Primary leaf area of shoots is estimated by a model using a calculated variable obtained from the average of the largest and smallest primary leaf area multiplied by the number of primary leaves. For lateral leaf area estimation another model is presented which uses the same type of calculated variable plus the area of the largest leaf. Both models explain a high proportion of the leaf area variability and have a good predicting capability. Validation with 4 independent data sets periodically sampled during several seasons from different varieties shows that these models can predict primary and lateral leaf area independently of variety, year and growth stage, using a non-destructive, low cost, simple and accurate method. The models represent a powerful tool for grapevine research, for consultants and advanced growers allowing the evaluation of leaf area more frequently.